US Popularity Rank: 10325

Origin: German

Meaning: Strife; Mighty bear

Barret is a masculine name known for its popularity in Ireland as a surname but actually has Germanic and Norman-French origins. From the German Bernwald, Barret earns its badass meaning “mighty bear,” which inspired the French form Baraud. The Anglo-Normans introduced the name to Ireland, where they adapted it to Barόid and Baréid, later anglicized to Barrett. Sources also suggest that Barret was inspired by the French barat, meaning “strife,” likely a nickname for a troublemaker. Whichever origin calls to you, there’s no denying the rambunctious energy yet stately charm Barret beholds.